Eye Tests

Eye Tests Are Vital

Regular eye are a vital part of looking after your health, particularly for those more susceptible to general health changes.

Eye Tests

Regular eye tests are very important particularly for those more susceptible to general health changes. The primary aim of the eye test is to determine the health of your eyes and the quality of your vision. You can expect to be asked about any signs or symptoms you may be experiencing, the state of your general health, whether there is a history of eye problems in your family, your occupation and recreation requirements.

An eye test normally involves:

Reading out letters on an eye chart, and checking whether or not glasses are required

The examination of your eyes with a bright light

Ensuring your eye muscles work together properly

Measurement of your eye pressure, assessment of your peripheral (side) vision, colour vision testing, and/or other tests may also be performed. Occasionally it may also be necessary to dilate your pupils.

Pupil dilation:

This examination enables your eye care professional to see more of your retina, the light-sensitive layer of tissue at the back of your eye

Dilating (widening) the pupil permits your eye to be examined for signs of disease. To do this, drops are placed into the eye to dilate (widen) the pupil. After the examination, your vision may (or may not) remain blurred for several hours.

Some Patients Get Free Eye Tests

Did you know you are entitled to an NHS free eye examination if you are:

Under 16

Under 19 and in full time education

Suffering from diabetes or glaucoma

Over 40 and your parents or a sibling has glaucoma

Diagnosed as needing complex lenses

On income support

On income based job seeker’s allowance

On certain tax credits

On pension credit guarantee

Registered partially sighted or blind

Hold a valid HC2 certificate

Certain people can also obtain a voucher from the NHS towards the cost of their glasses. The optician will inform you if you qualify and give you a voucher.

If you are a driver you must by law…

Be able to read a number plate from a distance of 20.5 metres • Wear your correct prescription eyewear when ever driving • Report certain eyesight conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma and double vision to the dvla. We can usually help with these conditions. • Be able to see clearly out of the corners of your eyes and while driving in the dark • Otherwise your insurance will be invalidated…